The director of the Australian War Memorial Brendan Nelson placed his arm around an emotional David Martin as the new granite soldier for Rutherglen’s memorial park was unveiled to the public.
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The big reveal on Saturday was the climax in a four-year journey for Mr Martin, secretary of the Rutherglen RSL sub-branch.
“We thought then we had to do something to recognise both the centenary of ANZAC and centenary of service to Rutherglen of the RSL,” he said.
“A statue like this didn’t just happen overnight and fall onto the pedestal, so it’s important we know who was involved.
“A lot of effort, a lot of donations, a lot of contributions.
“I’m continually amazed by the support I’ve received from the community to enable this to occur.
“Finally, we have to thank those 115 names up there, because without them, we wouldn’t be here.”
Dr Nelson, who made the promise two years ago to be at the ceremony, made reference to those Rutherglen soldiers who had died serving their country.
“Born in Rutherglen, William Colvin was a school teacher,” he said.
“He survived the Gallipoli campaign but was one of 363 casualties sustained by the 8th battalion at Pozieres over five days … he was 23 years old.
“It’s war that took these lives, it’s war that gave us this path, but the paradox is, it’s not about war.
“It’s about love and friendship, love of family and love of country.”
More than 150 people gathered at the memorial park for their first glance of the 700-kilogram statue.
Rutherglen’s newest soldier got a special salute from Victoria Cross recipient Keith Payne.
“Our friend is now looking upon the world; looking east and waiting for the new day to arrive,” he said.
“Those young men who forged this nation went forward to a war in which many did not return, but they did put Australia on the world map.
“Generations of Australians yet to come will be able to reflect on what was given to them when we were a young nation.”
Bonegilla-based craftsman Sam Hawksworth, who joined the army two years ago and volunteered his time to be part of the catafalque party on Saturday, was impressed with the statue.
“Little things like this can go unnoticed so it was good to see the solder – it’s little things like this that make the big things count,” he said.
“It feels special to be a part of and carrying it on for younger members to remember what’s happened in the past I think is very important.”
